Outdoor dining trial aims out to revitalise town centres

The Canterbury-Bankstown Council area has been selected to trial a new initiative that it is hoped will help revitalise town centres.

The pilot Outdoor Dining Programme will target restaurants and cafes in the suburb of Belfield for the trial.

In total there are in excess of 1,300 food establishments stretching from Milperra to Canterbury, which has put it in second position in term of numbers of dining venues in New South Wales council areas.

The programme, being run by the Office of the NSW Small Business Commissioner, has been welcomed by Mayor Khal Asfour who said the initiative will make it much simpler for restaurants and cafes to expand their operations outdoors and to remain open later.

He said the exercise begins with a much more simplified application process, explaining:

“Currently, businesses have to jump through hoops to have their outdoor and night time dining applications assessed, under state guidelines, including paying application and annual fees.”

He said that throughout the trial, however, outdoor dining fees will be waived for those businesses that apply.

The Mayor said the concept of alfresco dining has the potential to add great vibrancy to the location, as well as instilling a new character into the streetscape, giving local businesses opportunities for extended trading and helping the local economy to prosper.

In addition, he said the trial, which will see opening hours on business cards and menus extended, is also expected to generate renewed interest in the area and the diversity of cuisine on offer.